5 Tips for Avoiding Memory Card Problems

Anyone using a digital camera will probably experience memory card problems at
one point or another. These memory card problems are caused by a
variety of different factors. By finding out exactly what these are it
should be possible to avoid various memory card problems and make using
a digital camera much more reliable.

1. Formatting

Whenever you buy a new memory card most people will pop it into
their camera and start shooting straight away. However, this could lead
to errors if the card is in a format that the camera cannot use
properly. Format the card using your camera before you start to use it
to ensure that it's in the right format. Whenever you format the card
in the future you should also use the camera.

Instead of deleting all of the photos from the card you should
format the card every time. Formatting will help to correct any errors
in the file system of the memory card which were caused last time the
card was used.

2. Storage

Memory cards are normally small nondescript pieces of plastic. This
can make some people believe that they are indestructible. However,
memory cards can be damaged very easily if they are not stored
correctly. Keep the cards somewhere safe and well out of harm's way.
Memory cards should not be allowed to get wet because this can cause
lots of damage to the card.

Store them in the hard plastic cases that the cards came with. These
will prevent dust collecting on the contacts of the memory card which
could result in read / write errors.

3. Having Backups

The biggest readily available memory card is currently 32GB, it can
seem like a good idea to buy the biggest card you can afford so that
you can store lots of photos without needing to change cards. However,
if that one memory card breaks then you will end up loosing all of your
files and also needing to invest in another card. Using multiple
smaller cards will safeguard your photographs and also make sure that
you still have memory cards that you can use.

4. Don't Fill Cards

As you might have noticed, every digital photo is a different size
once it is saved to the memory card. This means that when your camera
tells you that you have x shots remaining this is nothing more than an
estimate. It's normally fairly accurate but if it does make a mistake
then it can result in lost photos. Always leave a few shots at the end
without any photos in them to protect the contents of the card.

5. Choosing High Quality Cards

Memory cards can be brought from many different places with most
stores having their own brand. However, you should buy reliable memory
cards that you can trust, stick to well known brands such as SanDisk.
Also be careful to avoid cheap fake imports from the Far East which are
easy to stumble across on Internet auction sites. These cheaper brands
of card often have a habit of misplacing your precious photos.